How to Hold a Pencil - Drawing and Sketching
Pencil Grips
1. The Basic Tripod Grip
2. Using The Basic Tripod Grip
3. Extended Tripod Grip
4. Overhand Grip
5. Using the Overhand Grip
6. Using the Underhand Pencil Grip
The Basic Tripod Grip
The basic tripod grip is the same as the one
you probably use for writing. The thumb and forefinger form
a triangle with the middle finger as shown, which is supported
by the ring finger and pinkie. This grip allows the pencil
to be finely controlled by the fingers, so is ideal for drawing
fine detail. The upright position of the pencil allows for
accurate shading with the tip, rather than side, of the pencil.
Using The Basic Tripod Grip
The tripod grip uses the fingers to control
the pencil, and for fine work, the hand can rest on the page.
Use a spare sheet of paper to keep your drawing free from
smudges and skin oils. If more movement is required, the wrist
or elbow can be rested against the edge of the drawing surface,
used as a pivot.
Extended Tripod Grip
The extended tripod grip uses the same hold
as the basic tripod grip, with a triangle formed by the thumb,
forefinger and middle finger, but further up the pencil. In
this way a small movement of the fingers can produce a much
larger movement of the pencil-tip, so it is an economical
and efficient grip for sketching. For best results, make sure
you keep a relaxed grip on the pencil - a tight, vice like
grip is tiring and restricting.
Overhand Grip
For the overhand grip, the pencil is braced
lightly against the fingers with the flat of the thumb. The
actual position will vary according the proportions of your
hand: the main thing is to have a secure but relaxed grip.
Using the Overhand Grip
The overhand grip is ideal for sketching with the side of
the pencil, and when using a vertical drawing surface, such
as an easel. For best results, sit or stand so that the arm
has a full range of movement, allowing for free, and expressive
mark-making.
Underhand Pencil Grip
The underhand pencil grip is a very loose and relaxed grip.
This example is basically a tipped-over tripod grip, but you
can also move the thumb higher or allow the pencil to sit
in the 'V' of the thumb and palm, with the index and middle
finger lightly controlling the tip. This grip is used for
casual, broad sketching, such as with charcoal pencil.
